background Depression is a common and very disabling condition in the communitydwelling elderly. Therefore, efficacious interventions to prevent the incidence of depression are potentially of great benefit for functioning and health.

methods We performed a randomised trial in 180 community-dwelling elderly of 75 years and older with a high risk profile to measure the effects of a targeted psychotherapeutic intervention in gp practices with a follow-up of one year.

results A more than 50 % risk reduction for developing depression was obtained in the intervention group during a one year period.

conclusion Targeted psychotherapeutic interventions to prevent depression in high risk community-dwelling elderly are highly effective.